Hysteria rains down as recruits, fans, & coaches celebrate Illinois win vs Tennessee

The Illinois football team just knocked off the Tennessee Volunteers in the Music City Bowl, and it wasn’t just fans who were taking notice.

The class of 2026 is a strong one for the Illini. We have a group of recruits coming in that ranks No. 23 in the country.

Illinois’ top offensive line signee, Micah Smith, took notice of the big victory. The four-star is all about the #FamILLy.

Smith’s running mate in the future, wide receiver Kenyon Alston, was also hyped for the win.

Former players were all over the Illini victory. There hasn’t been a ton of winning in the past, so having these former players get glory for being a part of the program feels good.

Fred Wakefield was a great player for the Illini and someone who played in the NFL. He is always keeping an eye on the Orange and Blue.

Illinois coaches were also taking notice. No, the football coaches weren't tweeting during the game, but it was the Illinois basketball coaches who wanted to congratulate the football program.

And then there were the fans. The Illinois fanbase was always great, but with the winning on the field, this group of fans has really blossomed into a massive crowd.

This closes the chapter on the Illinois football 2025 campaign. It was a run that was filled with hope, with the ultimate ending being a bowl game and going out on top. Let’s get set for 2026 and all of the fun the transfer portal will hold in the coming weeks.